Chief Lyle Urges Anyone Who Feels They May Have Been Victimized to Come Forward

MELROSE — Police Chief Michael L. Lyle reports that the Melrose Police Department was contacted last week by the Massachusetts Lottery Commission about an alleged fraud that took place at a Melrose establishments.

Melrose Police Department detectives are finalizing the investigation and will meet with officials from the Middlesex District Attorney’s Office to formalize charges against the owner of R D’s Delicatessen and Market on Franklin Street.

“These are troubling allegations, in which our investigation shows that a Melrose resident was taken advantage of and duped out of her rightful winnings,” Chief Lyle said. “We continue to gather facts and expect to have a resolution to this case soon.”

Lottery officials earlier this month informed the Melrose Police Department that the owner of R D’s Delicatessen and Market lost his privileges to legally sell lottery tickets. It was reported that a Melrose resident purchased a lottery ticket that won $10,000. The resident thought she had won $1,000 and went to cash the ticket at the Deli. The owner gave her $940 and explained that he had deducted taxes. Thinking this was suspicious, the resident’s family requested an investigation.

The owner’s Common Victualler license also expires on Dec. 31, and the City of Melrose is exploring its options with regards to whether or not to renew the license.

The investigation is led by Melrose Police Sergeant Paul McNamara. Chief Lyle wishes to underscore that if anyone else feels that they may have been victimized out of money or lottery winnings, that they should contact Sergeant McNamara at 781-979-4472 or by email at pmcnamara@cityofmelrose.org. Members of the public with concerns can also call the Melrose Police Department at 781-665-1212. Anonymous tips can be submitted by phone at 781-665-TIPS (8477) or via email by visiting http://melrosepolice.net/tips/.